Efficient task management is a key to profitable use of an automated tractor-implement
combination in the field. The information management system which is used to operate
automation of the tractor-implement combination can be used to manage the external information
such as to the task or surrounded environment related information, as well. User-friendly open
operation environment that provides possibilities for intelligent on-line functions in the field and
remote support via internet connections is introduced. The system utilizes open system interfaces
and ICT standards, such as ISOBUS, to enable compatibility between different system parts.
Wireless communication enables information exchange between off-road automation machines
and external operators like support services, databases or clients. Maintaining the wireless
internet based remote support system is cost efficient, since it can be used for communication
between several parties. Disadvantage is that internet connection exposes the system to malicious
programs and variable quality of service. The experiences from the case study concerning remote
assisted task management of ISOBUS compatible tractor-implement combination were
encouraging. The importance and possibilities of internet will increase further. Still there is a
need for further research and development work in the areas of openness, dependability as well
as user and task specific optimization of the calculation and data transfer capacity. Additional,
but unavoidable challenge will be the integration of site-specific data and GIS to the other
information systems.
Implement Combination